Taiwan Marks Breakthrough in Geothermal Development as Baseload Power Secures First FPIC Approval　Advancing a Community-Centered Energy Partnership Model

Baseload Power Taiwan, a global geothermal developer, has marked a major milestone in Taiwan's renewable energy transition by obtaining the nation's first-ever Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) for a geothermal exploration and development project under the Indigenous Peoples Basic Law. On November 9, the company inaugurated its local office in Hongye Village, Wanrong Township, Hualien County, and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the community—establishing a new paradigm in which energy development and community revitalization advance hand in hand.

The company's Wennerberg (Vimmerby) geothermal project, located within the traditional territory of the Hongye community, underwent a formal FPIC vote on May 31. Conducted in accordance with the Indigenous Peoples Basic Law and the community's own charter, the process saw participation from a majority of local households, with over 90% voting in favor of allowing Baseload Power to lease public land for geothermal exploration and development. This marks the first case in Taiwan where a private developer has independently initiated and successfully secured FPIC for a geothermal project.

Since 2020, Baseload Power Taiwan has engaged deeply with the community through public briefings, neighborhood consultations, household visits, and open dialogue—prioritizing transparency and community self-determination. With a five-year commitment to building trust, the company has listened to local concerns and supported community initiatives through ongoing cooperation.

Lu Shao-Qing, Chair of the Hongye Community Council, stated: "The FPIC result reflects the collective voice of our people and affirms Baseload Power's five years of consistent communication, transparency, and good-faith engagement. As the community supports geothermal exploration and development, we expect the company to uphold its commitments to shared prosperity and partnership should a power plant be built. The community council will continue to safeguard the rights and interests of our residents."

Geothermal energy, capable of operating 24/7, is a stable and clean resource. Beyond power generation, geothermal heat and residual water can support greenhouse agriculture, crop drying, and hot spring tourism, creating local jobs and driving sustainable economic development. With the opening of its local office, Baseload Power seeks to intensify collaboration with the community and public agencies to advance both energy development and regional revitalization. The Wennerberg project has received official geothermal exploration permits. Planning and preparation for drilling are underway, with exploratory work expected to span two years before entering the next stage of plant development. Baseload Power has committed to comprehensive impact mitigation—conducting pre-construction briefings, implementing vibration and noise controls, prioritizing local hiring and training, and publishing regular monitoring and environmental reports.

Van Hoang, Chairman and CEO of Baseload Power Taiwan, expressed: "We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of the Hongye community. We will continue to honor our commitment to shared progress and co-management. Our goal is to build Hualien's first geothermal power plant and work alongside the Hongye community to foster cultural, environmental, and energy sustainability."